The New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park, site of the Battle of New Bern, is comprised of over 30 acres in near pristine condition, unmarked by development or agriculture. The “redans” or fighting positions remain as they were a century and a half ago. You can literally walk in the footsteps of young Confederate and Union soldiers who were here on that fateful day: March 14, 1862. The Gateway Plaza leads to a unique 24 foot diameter color ground map and signage that provides an overview of the battle and a starting point for tours. Around the Visitors Center and along the battlefield trails are arrayed 36 informative and well-designed interpretive panels that tell the Battle of New Bern and the impact of the Civil War in great detail. The Visitors Center Pavilion is handicap accessible; the trails leading to the redans are gravel and mulch. The Park, which is unstaffed, is open dawn to dusk 365 days a year. Guided tours by volunteer Battlefield Guides are available for only $5 per person and can be arranged by calling the New Bern Historical Society at 252.638.8558 (preferably at least 48 hrs in advance if possible). Only 5 miles from historic downtown New Bern, the battlefield is a perfect spot for history buffs, nature lovers, families, and dog walkers.